As Ghana approaches its presidential and parliamentary elections, scheduled to take place in just 25 days, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised concerns about discrepancies in the electoral commission’s (EC) data on polling stations and the realignment of certain stations across the country.
In a recent briefing, Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, the Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC outlined these concerns and called on the EC to provide additional documentation to ensure transparency.
The EC’s recent announcement of polling station realignment has implications for the voting process, which the NDC believes must be clarified before election day.
Dr. Tanko, speaking to the press, noted that the party had identified significant issues with the EC’s records.
Polling Station Realignments and Cancellations
He expressed frustration over the lack of prior communication from the EC regarding these changes, emphasizing the potential impact on the voting process in these affected areas.
“This is the first time they are announcing it. I’m sure you the media, have taken notice of that. This is the first time. I mean, so if we hadn’t asked, all these things wouldn’t have [come] up.
We would have been going to the election, not knowing certain polling stations [do not] exist, only to go there and then voting will not take place in those areas and figures [being] aligned to other places.”
Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC
Dr. Tanko underscored the potential chaos that could arise if voters unknowingly attempt to vote at polling stations that no longer exist.
Request for Regional Breakdown and Detailed Data
Dr. Tanko argued that the current national summary provided by the EC was insufficient, emphasizing the importance of a more granular view. He noted:
“We need to know the regional breakdowns and all that. We will follow it through. We’ve taken notice of it, especially, the issue about the polling stations which do not exist again.”
Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC
This lack of transparency, he argued, could undermine the NDC’s ability to mobilize effectively across different regions and ensure that voters are informed about any changes to their designated polling stations.
Delayed Access to Voter Register Documentation
The issue of delayed documentation from the EC also emerged as a point of contention.
Dr. Tanko revealed that the NDC had previously requested updated voter register information, but had faced delays in receiving it.
This delay, he suggested, has hampered the party’s efforts to validate the accuracy of the EC’s data. When asked if he was satisfied with the current breakdown provided by the EC, Dr. Tanko responded:
“We’ve made relevant requests again, on the list that they have provided. You will see that they’ve talked of some 884 missing absentees due to the nonexistence of certain polling stations. I mean, this is a revelation they have made in their letter.”
Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC
While the NDC has not been given a summary of the data this year, Dr. Tanko emphasized the importance of a more comprehensive response from the EC, particularly given the discrepancies identified in the records.
He noted that the NDC’s concerns were based on a commitment to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process, one in which all parties have equal access to accurate information.
Concerns Over Communication and Potential Impact on Election Day
According to Dr. Tanko, such issues as the realignment of certain Polling Stations could potentially disenfranchise voters, leading to delays and confusion.
He reiterated the need for the EC to be forthcoming with detailed information so that political parties can work together to ensure a smooth election process.
Follow-up Actions and Requests for Clarity
Despite the challenges, Dr. Tanko indicated that the NDC remains committed to monitoring the situation and seeking further clarification from the EC.
He explained that the party has already submitted follow-up requests to address outstanding issues, including a request for final verification of the voter register.
While Dr. Tanko acknowledged that the EC had finally responded to some of the NDC’s initial inquiries, he emphasized that the process remains incomplete.
He expressed hope that the EC would provide the necessary documentation on time to avoid further complications.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
In conclusion, Dr. Tanko underscored the NDC’s commitment to holding the EC accountable for ensuring transparency in the electoral process.
He reiterated the need for accurate and timely information, noting that such transparency is essential to maintaining the integrity of the election. He concluded:
“We’ve taken notice of it, especially the issue about the polling stations which do not exist again. I mean, this is a revelation they have made in their letter.”
Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC
The NDC’s concerns reflect a broader call for transparency and accountability, as all stakeholders work together to create a fair and orderly election environment.
Dr. Tanko’s statements underscore the importance of clarity and communication in ensuring that the voting process remains accessible to all eligible voters, regardless of recent polling station realignments and changes.
With election day drawing closer, the NDC continues to seek answers and advocate for a transparent process that upholds the democratic rights of Ghanaians across the country.
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